The effect of Dynamic Acute Stretching Versus Warm-Up Exercises on Knee Range of Motion and Quadriceps Length in Young Adults with Quadriceps Tightness: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Description
Background: The quadriceps muscle frequently becomes tight, often resulting in reduced knee joint mobility and decreased functional performance in young adults. Healthcare professionals commonly recommend stretching and warm-up exercises to enhance flexibility and joint movements. Objective: This study aimed to determine whether dynamic acute stretching or traditional warm-up exercises are more effective at improving the knee range of motion, quadriceps muscle length, and overall quality of life in young adults with tight quadriceps muscles. Methodology: We conducted a study where young adults with tight quadriceps muscles were randomly assigned to two groups: one group performed dynamic stretching, while the other engaged in warm-up exercises. We assessed their knee bending ability, quadriceps muscle length, and quality of life over a four- week period, and analyzed the results using specialized statistical methods. Results: Both groups showed improvements in knee bending and muscle flexibility after four weeks of training. However, the group that practiced dynamic stretching exhibited greater enhancements in knee bending and quadriceps muscle length than the warm-up exercise group. This suggests that dynamic acute stretching is more effective than warm-up exercises for improving knee movement and muscle flexibility in young adults with tight quadriceps muscles. Keywords: stretching, Warm-up exercises, Quadriceps stiffness, Knee range of motion, Randomized controlled trial
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The study was initiated after obtaining ethical clearance from the Institutional Human Ethics Committee of Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj University, Kanpur. Participants were recruited from the outpatient department of physiotherapy at the School of Health Sciences, CSJMU, Kanpur. Prior to participation, the purpose and procedure of the study were clearly explained to all participants, and written informed consent was obtained. A total of 70 young adults aged between 18 and 25 years who met the inclusion criteria were selected using a simple random sampling method. Baseline assessment was conducted for all participants, which included measurement of knee range of motion (ROM) using a universal goniometer, quadriceps muscle length using Ely’s test, pain intensity using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS), and quality of life using the SF-36 questionnaire. Participants were then randomly divided into two groups, with 35 participants in each group. Group A received dynamic acute stretching exercises, while Group B performed general warm-up exercises. The intervention program was conducted under the supervision of a physiotherapist. Dynamic stretching exercises included leg swings, lunges, butt kicks, and high-knee movements, whereas the warm-up group performed light jogging, cycling, and general mobility exercises. Each session lasted approximately 15–20 minutes and was performed regularly according to the treatment protocol throughout the study period. At the end of the intervention period, all outcome measures were reassessed using the same evaluation tools and procedures. The collected data were recorded systematically and analyzed statistically using SPSS software to compare pre- and post-intervention results within and between both groups.
Institutions
- Chhatrapati Shahu Ji Maharaj UniversityUttar Pradesh, Kanpur